A Fantasy NBA Tournament

If only they played against each other in their primes. 

There is no need to reiterate how much fun it is to imagine things. To think about players who could have been even better if they played with a particular set of players. To imagine a world where MJ and Kobe got to go head to head at the peak of their respective powers. Imagine a game where Wilt and Shaq are battling for position under the basket. But alas, generations and time robbed us of the potentially great rivalries we could or maybe even should have witnessed. I plan to create eight 5-man teams designed to go head to head against one another. The players included are in my opinion among the all-time best at their positions. I will play a virtual game in my head and pick a winner NBA playoff style. Keep in mind that there is no disparity between the 1st team and the 8th team So, here we go.

Team 1
PG- John Stockton (Utah Jazz)
SG- Michael Jordan (Chicago Bulls)
SF- James Worthy (L.A. Lakers)
PF- Tim Duncan (San Antonio Spurs)
C-  Bill Russell (Boston Celtics)

Team 2
PG- Magic Johnson (L.A. Lakers)
SG- Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat) 
SF- Scottie Pippen (Chicago Bulls)
PF- Kevin Garnett (Minnesota Timberwolves) 
C-  Moses Malone (Houston Rockets) 

Team 3
PG- Chris Paul (L.A. Clippers)
SG- Jerry West (L.A. Lakers)
SF- John Havlicek (Boston Celtics)
PF- Charles Barkley (Phoenix Suns)
C-  David Robinson (San Antonio Spurs)

Team 4
PG- Isiah Thomas (Detroit Pistons)
SG- Oscar Robertson (Cincinnati Royals)
SF- Julius Erving (Philadelphia 76ers)
PF- Dirk Nowitzki (Dallas Mavericks)
C-  Shaquille O'Neal (L.A. Lakers)

Team 5
PG- Jason Kidd (New Jersey Nets)
SG- Kobe Bryant (L.A. Lakers)
SF- Larry Bird (Boston Celtics) 
PF- Dennis Rodman (Detroit Pistons) 
C-  Hakeem Olajuwon (Houston Rockets)

Team 6
PG- Gary Payton (Seattle Supersonics) 
SG- Allen Iverson (Philadelphia 76ers) 
SF- LeBron James (Miami Heat)
PF- Karl Malone (Utah Jazz)
C-  Wilt Chamberlain (Philadelphia 76ers)  

Team 7 
PG- Steve Nash (Phoenix Suns)
SG- Clyde Drexler (Portland Trailblazers) 
SF- Elgin Baylor (L.A. Lakers)
PF- Kevin McHale (Boston Celtics) 
C-  Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (L.A. Lakers)

Team 8
PG- Walt Frazier (New York Knicks) 
SG- George Gervin (San Antonio Spurs) 
SF- Dominique Wilkins (Atlanta Hawks) 
PF- Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic) 
C-  Patrick Ewing (New York Knicks) 

First match up, Team 1 against Team 8. We have Stockton, Jordan, Worthy, Duncan and Russell going up against Frazier, Gervin, Wilkins, Howard and Ewing. I want to start by addressing the fact that I have Dwight Howard listed as a power forward. Here is the logic behind it. If Tim Duncan is listed as a power forward, and we have documented interviews with Gregg Popovich openly saying that they have used Duncan as a center since way back when. I guess we can make a fair argument that Dwight can play the 4 spot with his "actual" height at 6'9 or 6'10 paired with his nearly unparalleled athleticism. So let's see, the battle down low pits Duncan and Russell against Dwight and Patrick with Worthy and Wilkins duking it out at the 3 spot. I give the front court advantage to Team 1, seeing as Tim Duncan in his prime would fair very well against both Ewing and Dwight Howard. Not to mention Bill Russell who'd swat anything in his path, remember, blocked shots weren't recorded back in Russell's heyday. But I found out that if they were, he would've easily averaged over 6 blocks per contest. For the back court match up, let's just give it to Team 1. MJ rules all, coupled with Stockton's savvy and ball hawking abilities. They easily hold the advantage. Winner: Team 1 (106 - 99). 

Next game would be Team 2 versus Team 7. Magic, Wade, Pippen, Garnett and Moses Malone up against Nash, Drexler, Baylor, McHale and Kareem. The intriguing match ups belong to the wing positions. Flash against Clyde the Glide and Pippen looking to contain Elgin Baylor. There is also the all Celtic match up pitting KG against all-time Celtic great Kevin McHale, these two Kevins should put on quite a show with their bevy of post moves with Garnett utilizing his shoulder shimmy fade away and McHale employing his famous up and under. The point guard and center match ups are the key in my opinion. Magic and Nash are both all-world playmakers but standing 6'9, Magic should hold a significant advantage. Moses Malone and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar should play each other to a near draw with Kareem gaining an edge because of his patented Sky Hook. But overall, Pippen's all around defense and Wade's fast paced high flying fastbreak antics with Magic at the point should prove too much for Team 7 in the end. Winner: Team 2 (105 - 101).

Now, on to the Team 3 versus Team 6 match up. Here we have Chris Paul, Jerry West, John Havlicek, Charles Barkley and David Robinson going toe to toe with Gary Payton, Allen Iverson, LeBron James, Karl Malone and Wilt Chamberlain. Team 6 has athleticism for miles while Team 3 has a very well balanced attack with all-world finishers and CP3 running the show. However, Gary Payton is the greatest defensive point guard of all time. Payton should be able to limit CP3's effectiveness to a point that forces him to perform below his lofty standards. The Logo versus The Answer pits two of the NBA's most potent scorers against one another. They both eventually play into a stalemate. The front court is where the biggest difference will occur. Tell me, can anyone think of a more imposing frontline than LeBron James, Karl Malone and Wilt Chamberlain? They would absolutely blow Havlicek, Barkley and Robinson out of the arena. Well not really, but their sheer size and athleticism should be enough to ensure that Team 6 dominates this game from start to finish. Winner: Team 6 (115 -  98).

Team 4 versus Team 5 should be very interesting. We got Isiah Thomas, Oscar Robertson, Julius Erving, Dirk Nowitzki and Shaquille O'Neal going up against Jason Kidd, Kobe Bryant, Larry Bird, Dennis Rodman and Hakeem Olajuwon. Jason Kidd and Isiah Thomas should prove to be very entertaining with the scoring advantage going to Zeke and the playmaking advantage going to Kidd. The Big O and Kobe should prove to be a battle of attrition with Kobe coming out victorious. His overall competitiveness and killer instinct will prove to be too much for Robertson. Dr. J and Larry Legend have had their fair share of battles. Even though Dr. J's high flying attacks are a thing of beauty, history tells us, Bird is still superior in nearly every aspect of the game. Dennis Rodman should be able to get under Dirk's skin enough to take him out of rhythm. And Hakeem will once again outclass Shaq down low. Winner: Team 5 (111 - 102). 

For the next round and the next two games. Let's make a random type mix and match of who goes against one another. I'll put Team 2 up against Team 6. Just so Scottie Pippen would get to guard LeBron James. After all, Pippen did pretty much invent the point-forward position, a moniker that he and LeBron share. Then we have Team 1 versus Team 5 where we finally get to see the Black Mamba face-off against none other than Air Jordan. 

Alright! First game of the "Final Four" Team 2 versus Team 6. We have Magic, Wade, Pippen, Garnett and M. Malone. Team 6 boasts The Glove, The Answer, King James, The Mailman and The Big Dipper. As we all can see, Team 6 easily wins the "cool nickname" battle. This is a good match up because Magic will be more than a handful for Gary Payton. But I expect The Glove to hold his own, but Magic takes this one. Wade and A.I. should be an awesome match up. Both are scoring dynamos. Both play with a style that displays reckless abandon and a willingness to sacrifice their own bodies for victory. Slight advantage goes to D-Wade for his prowess on the defensive end. Then we have the Scottie Pippen versus LeBron James match up. Pippen as we all know can do it all. He can defend 1 through 4. So can LeBron, but to a more significant extent. This is because LeBron is the most freakishly athletic individual this league has ever seen. And he can check a select few pivot men in the NBA. I believe LeBron will be able to overpower Pippen on the offensive end with his post up game and bully him into submission on the defensive end. Advantage to the King. The front court match up will be very fun to watch. Imagine Moses Malone squaring off against Wilt and KG exchanging blows with Karl Malone. Offensively, the K. Malone/Wilt Chamberlain duo holds the advantage. But when it comes to defensive versatility, the nod goes to the KG/Moses Malone combo. But the latter are no slouches  on D either. The battle down low will rest on the giant known as The Big Dipper. His offensive prowess is unmatched, not to mention that Wilt runs like a track star. The deciding factor in my opinion will be in the final few minutes when Team 6 decides to switch LeBron unto Magic while Payton tries to do his best to contain Pippen. Although Team 2 has the advantage on some intangibles like heart and intensity. Team 6's sheer talent is enough to get them over the hump against Team 2. Winner: Team 6 (109 - 106).

The second game of the "Final Four" is a doozy. We have Team 1 matching up against Team 5. Stockton, Jordan, Worthy, Duncan and Russell versus Kidd, Bryant, Bird, Rodman and Olajuwon. The point guard match up is as cerebral as it gets. Stockton and Kidd could very well play one another to a stand still. Kidd with the speed advantage and Stockton with his steady shooting should help dictate the pace. Big Game James and Larry Legend have had their share of wars. This match up is an instant classic in every sense. Duncan and Russell against Rodman and Olajuwon should be intensely interesting as well. On one hand we have Duncan who is as calm, patient and cerebral as it gets. On the other there is Rodman, a ticking time bomb who also happens to be the greatest rebounder of his generation. His defense isn't half bad either. Bill Russell and Hakeem Olajuwon are two of the best at defending the rim. Their shot swatting abilities are a big part of what made them legends. But the slight advantage will have to go to Hakeem for his ability to dominate on the offensive side of the ball. I believe that Dream's offensive repertoire will be too much, too fast for Bill Russell. A player who I am certain has not seen half the moves that Dream brings to the table. Finally there is the Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant superfight. Both possessing that killer DNA. Both with unparalleled competitive drives. The difference here will be Jordan's efficiency advantage. Seeing as he is a career .500 shooter from the field. And the fact that he's basketball's G.O.A.T. A game like this with players like these is sure to be tightly contested for the better part of four quarters. Either team giving an inch up until the last few seconds. When Jordan effectively forces Kobe into a supremely difficult 22 foot fadeaway buzzer beater attempt from the left wing which hits nothing but air. Winner: Team 1 (100 - 99). 

Now, the final game. Let us remember that these teams I created were half random and half well thought out. Maybe one more than the other. But who cares? Team 1 squaring off against Team 6. Stockton, Jordan, Worthy, Duncan and Russell versus Payton, Iverson, James, Malone and Chamberlain. Alright, where do I begin? I'll start out by pointing out an obvious mismatch on D for Team 6. Allen Iverson has no shot in hell at attempting to check MJ. Simple right? Stick LeBron on him. Wrong. Not for long stretches at least. Hide A.I. on Stockton for most of the game and put Payton on MJ. He should be able to do an admirable job. And let LeBron take on Big Game James for most of the night up until maybe the final few minutes. Duncan and Russell against Malone and Chamberlain. This is as juicy a giant battle as it gets. Its basically 15 rings against 2. But, I believe that Karl Malone will have a lot to prove against Tim Duncan. His pure physicality should be enough to take Tim Duncan out of his comfort zone. Not for the entire game of course. He's still the greatest power forward of all time after all. Russell and Wilt should do their usual thing. Only this time The Big Dipper has the supporting cast that matches up well with that of Russell's. It will be really fun to imagine LeBron James ferociously attacking the rim against a ready and waiting Bill Russell. It will be like an atomic bomb waiting to go off. Imagine Jordan weaving his way into traffic and challenging the length and equal athleticism of Wilt Chamberlain. Not to mention that Stockton and Malone will be foes in this particular game. Making for a somewhat entertaining undertone. James Worthy and Michael Jordan will be the bonafide closers for Team 1. They have proven it throughout their careers and they may very well prove it again in this make believe game. But alas, the talent on Team 6 is far too much to ignore. LeBron James and Wilt Chamberlain alone should pose an insurmountable wall of pure God-given talent and athleticism. Just enough to topple Team 1's resolve. I can see LeBron slicing his way into the lane and hitting open jump shooters like Karl Malone and Allen Iverson for easy looks. I know Duncan and Jordan are all world defenders. But I like LeBron at the rim one on one against Bill Russell. His freakish strength and ability to contort his body for awe inspiring baskets should break Russell at some point. Lastly, the defensive switch that puts LeBron on MJ and vice versa. I am a Jordan fan. The Bulls were my first ever favorite team. But I'll be honest here. I do not think Jordan can guard the new LeBron James with a still improving post up game. He would simply be overmatched size-wise and strength-wise. LeBron on the other hand is as quick or even quicker than MJ. Able to match him stride for stride on defense. His size and length should be enough to bother Jordan. Imagine LeBron as Joe Dumars turning into the Hulk. LeBron and Gary's defense should be enough to limit Team 1's fluidity. And though I know Team 1's defenders are all time greats as well. They would simply get bull rushed by Team 6's freaks of nature. And when all else fails, LeBron can simply go into Magic Johnson mode and easily find Wilt and Karl for easy baskets at the front of the rim. There is no question that Team 1 is more fundamentally sound. But Team 6 isn't too far behind in that regard. And they possess a lot more athleticism and over all talent. And more often than not. Talent trumps all. I see Team 6 pulling out a narrow victory. Winner: Team 6 (116 - 112).

James Naismith

Well, personally it was a lot of fun putting together these fantasy teams and fantasy match ups together. Strong cases could be made for any of these eight teams coming out on top. It's nice to know that daydreaming is free. It is too bad that we will never be able to see legends go head to head in their primes. They are separated by circumstance and generations. It is truly a shame that Michael Jordan had no peers. Or maybe he was just head and shoulders above everybody else. He never truly experienced what Magic and Larry had. When MJ faced Magic, the latter was on the decline. Even Bryant and LeBron will never truly face off at the peak of their primes. We are however somewhat fortunate that Kevin Durant became as great as he is, as fast as he did. At least we'll be able to witness LBJ vs. KD wars for the foreseeable future. This is nothing but another bunch of "what ifs". Bottom line is that the NBA no matter what, is a spectacle that matches the true talent and will of individuals and showcases everything on the hardwood. What I did was simply showcase (in my mind) nearly 70 years worth of talent and hard work. We should all thank the guy in the photo above. For making all this a reality. 

Why Denver can Win the West

Iggy and his Gold Medal

The Denver Nuggets, quietly but definitively  built a contender in the West. One that is built to compete this year and beyond. They posses youth at every position, they boast speed and athleticism that can only be matched by two or three other teams in the league. They have players that are as versatile as any in the NBA. What makes them special is part of what makes them championship pretenders in the eyes of many. The fact of the matter is that this Denver Nuggets squad goes ten deep rather easily. Here is a breakdown position by position. At point guard they have Ty Lawson and Andre Miller. At the 2-guard spot they boast Andre Iguodala and Corey Brewer. Their small forwards are one time Knicks Danilo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler. At the 4 spot they bring to the floor Kenneth Faried and Anthony Randolph. And finally, they have JaVale McGee and Timofey Mozgov at the pivot. At least three of their back ups are fit to start for a number of other NBA teams. The one thing missing from this team is a bonafide superstar closer. The closest thing they have to a superstar is Olympic gold medalist Andre Iguodala. But I don't believe that the lack of a superstar closer will stop them from coming out of the West at least once out of the next five or so seasons. 

The Young Core

Some may ask me for the basis of my argument, well, simply put, my basis is an analogy I picked up from certain trends that take place ever so rarely in the NBA. Teams can win a title without a transcendant superstar. Teams can be perennial playoff contenders without a superstar. As a prime example, look no further than the Detroit Pistons of 2003 to 2008. They won the title in 2004, handily beating a stacked Lakers team featuring four hall of famers. Their balanced attack was predicated on the strength of their defense and the chemistry they possessed on offense. With a fearsome starting five of Chauncey Billups, Rip Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince, Rasheed Wallace and Ben Wallace. The Detroit Pistons brought relevance back to the Motor City. Now the question is, can these Nuggets bring an even  higher level of relevance to the Mile High City. I believe they can. The thing that separates those Pistons from these Nuggets is that the Pistons didn't necessarily go ten deep. They had a superb 6th man in Antonio McDyess, but not much behind him, certainly nobody that could start for any other team. Another difference is that these Nuggets will be more known for their high octane offense, one that led the league just last season and is poised for another top 3 finish this year. But don't sleep on the upside of their defense. With a (hopefully) more mature JaVale McGee patrolling the paint with his 7'6 wingspan and 33 inch vertical leap, and Kenneth Faried further tapping his full potential, the Nuggets will be solid down low. Let us not forget about their elite wing defenders, namely Andre Iguodala and the potentially deadly Wilson Chandler, not to mention Corey Brewer. These players will find a way to coexist harmoniously on defense, reaching a level similar to that of their high caliber offense. The rest of the league better take notice. This team is more dangerous than the Carmelo-led Nuggets ever were. 

JaVale McGee

In conclusion, the Denver Nuggets have everything in place to make a significant amount of noise in the West. Remember, they were one game away from upsetting the mighty Lakers in last season's playoffs. Even with both teams having new players adding a different dynamic. I believe a Lakers and Nuggets rematch this season would surprise many, I predict the Nuggets winning that series in 6. Simply because they are faster and more athletic, even if the Lakers boast Dwight Howard. They also have enough shooters to space the floor for a slashing Andre Iguodala or Ty Lawson. These ten deep Nuggets will shock the world, I could be wrong about them this season. But in the extremely near future, don't be surprised to see JaVale's frown turned upside down. After the Nuggets hoist the Larry O'Brien trophy in June 2013 and beyond. 

The BK Nets are still the NY Knicks' "Little Brother"

There is nothing quite like a crosstown rivalry, two teams battling it out for bragging rights and plain old glory. Add the fact that the town/city we are talking about is New York and you have the makings of a great spectacle for the city to bare witness to. But what makes a good rivalry? Bad blood maybe? Or animosity between players on the opposing teams? As of now though, the bad blood and animosity only seems to exist between these two team's fan bases. But through time and a few gritty games, things could change in half a heartbeat.  I would also like to note that it is wonderful that these two teams are relevant at the same time. They are more than likely to make it to the postseason. And there is a very good chance that their paths cross deep into the playoffs.  

Melo & D-Will

What gives the Knicks an ever so slight edge over these brand new Nets? Not much to be honest, but its something. Let's start with the obvious, their line ups. I'll go ahead and assume (once healthy) Iman Shumpert will start at the 2 for New York. So match up by match up, we will have Raymond Felton vs. Deron Williams. This one easily goes to the Nets, as Williams is a top 4 point guard in the NBA and Felton is coming off one of the worst seasons of his career. One thing Felton has going for him is that he has just enough size and girth to bump heads with Deron from time to time. Although still solid, Felton will have much to prove this year. At shooting guard we have Iman Shumpert vs. Joe Johnson. Now, at first glace, the typical NBA fan will give this one hands down to "Iso Joe". But don't be too quick to count out just how effective and sometimes devastating Shumpert is on the defensive side of the ball. He is 6'5 with a 6'10 wingspan. Shumpert will have enough, foot speed and agility to  adequately contain  Johnson more often than not, assuming he recovers 100% from his knee injury. With all that in mind, it would be foolish to ignore Joe's reputation as a big time scorer and facilitator. And because of this, I'd have to give a slight advantage to Joe Johnson. Nets 2, Knicks 0. 

Sorry Kris

On to the two forward spots. To kick things off, we have maybe the most intriguing match up of all. Carmelo Anthony vs. Gerald Wallace. Melo in my own honest opinion is the NBA's most devastating scorer. He can get it done from any spot on the floor, high post, low post, it doesn't matter. He can take it to the hole. He can shoot at will off the dribble, he's got a sweet stroke from distance, and on top of all that, he's stronger than you'd expect so his post game is no joke. On the other hand, Gerald Wallace defends with such heart and hustle that he is capable of shutting down any wing player in the NBA outside of those who are truly elite. Taking all of this into account, Melo still holds quite an advantage due to his reputation as a killer, plus he is coming off a wonderful Olympic performance which I expect to him carry over into the NBA regular season. For the 4 spot, Amar'e Stoudemire vs. Kris Humphries. Although Humphries is a very solid power forward and a walking double double. Amar'e is coming into the season more motivated than ever. Taking 2 weeks to learn from Hakeem Olajuwon and vowing to bring more focus and effort on defense. If these things come into fruition, the NBA better watch out. I firmly believe that synergy between Amar'e and Melo is closer than most people think. Advantage Stoudemire, Nets 2, Knicks 2. 

Don't expect this too often

The center position, the giants of the game. Here we will see defensive juggernaut Tyson Chandler against the talented yet still unproven Brook Lopez. Lopez has a knack for scoring and is easily good for 19 to 22 points per outing. But here is where Chandler comes in, he is more than capable of limiting not only his counterpart's scoring, but his touches as well. Tyson Chandler is the reigning DPOY and not too bad in the pick and roll. He also defends the pick and roll as well as anybody. I forgot to mention that he is one of the NBA's more efficient players. So in conclusion, Chandler is capable of stopping or at least containing Lopez, as well as dunking over the top of his head. I also forgot to mention that the Heat's shooting guard is a better rebounder than the Nets' starting center. Advantage Chandler. Nets 2, Knicks 3. 

Experience with a capital E

Both team's benches are quite interesting, the Nets boast Marshon Brooks, a very dynamic scorer with a high enough ceiling to make the average fan excited. The Knicks will have J.R. Smith, fully capable of exploding on any team he faces and on the faces of the team he plays for. The Nets have Keith Bogans, who defends well, the Knicks have Ronnie Brewer, who defends better. And in come the dinosaurs, the Nets boasting former scoring champion Jerry Stackhouse and the Knicks coming forward with Jason Kidd and Marcus Camby, both of whom have proven to be more effective than Stackhouse at this stage of their respective careers, not to mention they will work wonders for New York in the locker room. There is wild card Mirza Teletovic, the 6'9 forward from Bosnia, we hear good things about him but until we see those things on the NBA hardwood, they count for nothing. Oh yeah, Knicks have an automatic shooter from downtown coming off the bench in Steve Novak. And of course there is Reggie Evans and Kurt Thomas coming off the pine to start a few fights and brawls to spice up this thing. Over all, I pick the Knicks 2nd unit over the Nets'. Nets 2, Knicks 4. 

Finally, there is experience and over all chemistry. Sure the Nets have yet to enter training camp as one unit and the Knicks have been a disaster for the better part of the past two seasons. But you can count on the Knicks figuring things out before the Nets do, due to their experience on the hardwood together. With Mike Woodson firmly at the helm for the Knicks, I believe their coaching staff will find a way to make all the pieces of the puzzle fit together. Not to overlook that Avery Johnson is no slouch either, once leading the Dallas Mavericks to a Western Conference Championship in 2006. If you noticed, as far as the starting 5 goes, the Nets hold the backcourt advantage while the Knicks rule the frontcourt. Why not just combine the two and make one "Ultra Team"? Anyway, I'm getting ahead of myself.   This budding rivalry should be one to keep an eye on for years to come. But for now, all we can do is wait and wonder. Perhaps we will know just how great of a rivalry this will be when they finally clash in Brooklyn's brand spankin' new arena, the Barclays Center on November 1. I expect that game to be as competitive as any. Consider it Round 1 in a grueling heavyweight match up. This is good for the NBA, a new rivalry to help take it to the next level in the East. 

San Antonio Spurs: Near the End of an Era

"The Admiral" David Robinson 

For the San Antonio Spurs, the long journey to greatness started in 1987 when they drafted David Robinson with the first pick. However it wouldn't be until 1989 that Robinson would join the Spurs, he had to finish his prior commitment to the Navy before finally playing in the NBA. In his rookie season, he single handedly led one of the greatest turn arounds in NBA history. He carried San Antonio to a 56-26 regular season record, their record from the year before? 21-61. From then on the Spurs became perennial playoff contenders. But Robinson always fell short, never getting past the Western Conference Finals. He even admitted to being vastly outplayed by one Hakeem Olajuwon in a Western Conference Finals match up that pitted two of the greatest big men of their generation against one another. San Antonio's succession of playoff runs would come to an abrupt end in the 96-97 season. Robinson broke his foot in a regular season match-up against the Heat. Little did he know that his injury would be the key to success in his quest for an NBA Title. 

The "Twin Towers"

In 1997, the Spurs would win the draft lottery and pick none other than Tim Duncan. Duncan was a "sure thing", meaning there was absolutely no doubt about the positive impact he would have on the team that drafted him, he was a superstar in the truest sense. A dominating force on both ends of the floor, the "Big Fundamental" helped Robinson to a couple of NBA Championship runs in 1999 and 2003. San Antonio, a perennial playoff contender every year. A model franchise for the  rest of the NBA to adhere to. Led by head coach Greg Popovich and an outstanding front office. The Spurs were able to draft diamonds in the rough by acquiring Manu Ginobili in 1999, late in the 2nd round and Tony Parker in 2001, late in the 1st round. Duncan would then continue his run of excellence and consistency with another two titles in 2005 and 2007 with Ginobili and Parker flanking him. The Spurs were arguably the team of that decade.

The Big 3

Now, in this "new era" of the NBA. Where wing players dominate the game. Where hybrid point guards that can score with the best of them rule the hardwood. "Stretch 4s" starting to replace the traditional power forward, and a league where dominant centers are endangered. The San Antonio Spurs are still a relevant fixture in the pool of contenders. How? Because Gregg Popovich is a master, a genius and one hell of a coach. He saw that times were changing and he was able to adapt and not only survive. He was able to thrive in his new high octane offense that preached ball movement and good spacing. He had abandoned his old style that used an unbreakable defense and pounding the ball into an in-his-prime Tim Duncan. He had handed the keys to Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. Unfortunately, This model will only get them to a certain point in the playoffs. I see their ceiling at a game 7 of a 2nd round playoff match up against either the Thunder or the new look Lakers. Two teams that are poised to decimate any Western Conference foe that stands in their way. The only team with a slight chance of besting these two would be the Spurs, but their off season decision to stand pat will prove my point, they do not have enough fire power or talent to overcome the Thunder or the Lakers. Funny thing is, the perfect team to unseat OKC and LAL would be the Knicks roster mixed with the Spurs coaching staff and management. That team would have enough to thwart both the Thunder and Lakers. Unfortunately, reality will prevent that from ever happening. 

San Antonio's Last Title Run in 2007

The San Antonio Spurs had a good run, a million playoff appearances and four championships isn't to shabby. They are the team of the decade (2000-2010, 1999*). The only way I can imagine the Spurs transforming into a force once more is if they end up drafting Nerlens Noel. But that almost certainly means that Duncan would have to fall into a very David Robinson-like destiny. Enough with the fantasies, I'm not one to wish ill will toward anyone. So instead, the Spurs will have to prepare for life after Tim Duncan. Sure they'll probably have an ancient Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker near the end of his prime, but those two aren't nearly enough, especially in today's NBA. The road will be long and treacherous, but if any franchise can climb their way back into relevance. It's the San Antonio Spurs. From top to bottom, one of the classiest and most dominant franchises in NBA and sports history. We are nearing the end of a great era, I for one am thankful to have witnessed the Spurs' run of dominance and consistency first hand. 

The NBA's New Arms Race: Super Teams on the Rise

80's Dynasties 

The “Super Team” concept is relatively new in today’s NBA, all-stars joining forces on one team for a better shot at a championship. The fact of the matter is that “Super Teams” have been around since the beginning of the NBA. From the storied Celtics teams of the 60’s boasting Russell, Cousy, Heinsohn and Havlicek (in the later years), The Lakers of the 70’s with Chamberlain, West and Baylor and of course the NBA’s renaissance in the 80’s with the Magic-Kareem-Worthy led Lakers and the Bird-McHale-Parish led Celtics. And finally, the team of the 90's: MJ's Bulls. They have been around since the beginning and we are taking notice now because of all the new Media hype and the not too long ago Internet boom.   

The way these teams are formed may be questionable at times, but the truth is, the moves that were made were all within the rules and strict regulations of the NBA. There is the good old-fashioned way of acquiring talent via the NBA Draft, then we have free agency, and of course, the trade market.

In my opinion, the NBA today boasts 4 legitimate Super Teams. Out West there is the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers. In the East there is the defending champion Miami Heat and the New York Knicks. Yeah I said it, the Knicks have the star-power and fire-power to be considered a Super Team, if and only IF they get their chemistry issues worked out.

Young Guns in OKC

Let's start with OKC, they built their Super Team the old fashioned way, the “clean” way if you will. Via the NBA Draft. In 2007 they drafted Kevin Durant with the 2^nd overall pick (Thank you Portland), in 2008 and they took one of my favorite players with the 4^th pick in Russell Westbrook, they also took Serge Ibaka with the 24^th selection in that year’s draft. And for the icing on the cake, in 2009 the drafted super sub James Harden with the 3^rd pick, passing on players like Tyreke Evans and Steph Curry in the process. The Thunder did things the Spurs way, what many call the “fair” way. In my mind, they have the brightest future in the NBA seeing as their core group of players is no older than 24.

Miami Heat: 2012 NBA Champions

Next would be the much-scrutinized Miami Heat. Their weapon of choice? Free agency. With the great and cunning Pat Riley leading the charge, along with Dwyane Wade as the lead recruiter. The Heat couldn’t lose, pulling off perhaps the greatest free agent coupe in NBA history, they signed Chris Bosh, LeBron James and re-signed Dwyane Wade to form one of the best Big 3s in NBA history. But much work was to be done, the supporting cast had to be put in place for them to ultimately win their first championship (of the Big 3 Era), and win the championship they did in a "Gentleman's Sweep" of the OKC Thunder. 

A New Era in Hollywood

Now for the the Los Angeles Lakers, fresh off of acquiring Dwight Howard, a few weeks off of acquiring Steve Nash. They utilized the trade market to become "super" once more. They nabbed Nash via sign and trade and snatched Dwight, also via trade. The Dwight trade was a four-way affair that helped all teams in my opinion. I think Orlando was just happy to be rid of the massive headache that was Dwight Howard and his endless Indecision. Now the Lakers, this Super Team, this one is one for the ages. 2-time MVP Steve Nash, 5-time NBA champion 2-time Finals MVP Kobe Bryant, One time Defensive Player of the year MWP (Ron Artest), still one of the best Power Forwards in the NBA, the finesse 4 man Pau Gasol and the man who could possibly lead the Lakers into the Post-Bryant era, 3-time DPOY Dwight Howard.  This team almost literally has everything. They have a selfless, creative pin-point passer and dead-eye shooter in Nash, a controversial, entertaining and crazy perimeter stopper in World Peace, the NBA’s most offensively refined and skilled big man in Gasol, the ultimate defensive force who is capable of covering everyone’s a** in Howard and the killer cold-blooded closer in Kobe Bryant. Who can stop them? They are seemingly unbeatable on paper. If they find a way to make all the pieces fit together, even I will have a hard time imagining a scenario wherein the Thunder or Heat beat this LA team in a 7 game series.

NYK and their Boundless Talent

Finally, the New York Knicks, sort of a hybrid, they got Stoudemire via free agency, and traded for Melo. The deciding factor here is the high likelihood that Iman Shumpert reaches his potential this season or the next. Think about it, Raymond Felton isn’t as bad as most people make him out to be. If he can get back into shape and perform the way he did before he was traded to Denver in the Melo deal, even if its to a lesser extent, the Knickerbockers will be fine. So that’s a potential starting lineup of Felton, Shumpert, Anthony, Stoudemire and Chandler. That’s as formidable a starting 5 as it gets in the NBA today. Not to mention their veteran bench, the great Jason Kidd, the returning Marcus Camby, this is not to mention mercurial scorer J.R. Smith and 3-point specialist Steve Novak. Back to Shumpert, he is a 2-guard who is a defensive standout, he has more than enough speed, quickness and length to contain elite perimeter players at the 2 and 3 position. He is also known to be a more than adequate finisher at the rim, if he can find time to work on his perimeter shot, the Knicks will be capable of challenging the Heat for supremacy in the East.

The Ultimate "Super Team" 72-10, 1996 NBA Champions

What it all comes down to is which team can get it all together at the right time. We all know what the Heat and Thunder are capable of. The true unknowns here are obviously the Lakers and the Knicks. Keep in mind that New York has yet to go through a full training camp with all the pieces in tow. This upcoming NBA season will be the first fair and true barometer with which we’ll all be able to gauge just how good this Knicks team can be. The 2012-2013 NBA season will be one of the best in recent memory, it would be better if D-Rose didn’t tear his ACL, but he’ll be back in March, and that’s beside the point. The NBA’s rollercoaster history is about to get much more interesting. Plots and storylines abound, this season will conjure up increased interest in the NBA from the outside world. Everything will be magnified, and I think that it is fitting that this NBA season marks the first title defense of the “Chosen One” LeBron James. Can you give me a potential NBA Finals match-up that would be as star-studded and riveting as a Miami Heat versus L.A. Lakers showdown? I doubt it, this season will be one for the ages. And the new NBA arms race has only just begun. 

The Knicks as Challengers to the Heat's Eastern Supremacy

The summer of 2010 was also an eventful one for the New York Knicks. Yes they lost the race for LeBron, but they came away with somewhat of a consolation prize in Amar'e Stoudemire. They fielded a pretty solid playoff worthy line up before the Melo-drama came to an end. Felton, Fields, Gallinari, Stoudemire and Turiaf, with Wilson Chandler coming off the bench were good enough to be an above .500 team in the East. 

Knicks core in 2010-2011

Then it happened, the Knicks finally traded for Carmelo Anthony. Just the kind of superstar they were looking for, not to mention he was born in New York, the interest between both the Knicks and Melo was intensely mutual. But it came at a steep price, the Knicks had to cough up Gallinari, Chandler, Felton and Mozgov to acquire the scoring dynamo. They did however absorb 2004 Finals MVP Chauncey Billups. They then went on to fade out of the 1st round of the playoffs against the Celtics. 

The fury of Tyson Chandler

In the summer of 2011, the Knicks again made waves by signing brand new NBA Champion Tyson Chandler, a defensive force and offensively efficient center. From a leadership standpoint, it did hurt them to lose Billups to the Clippers. We all know how Linsanity started and ended in New York. And this upcoming season the New York Knicks will field a strong line up featuring their own version of a Big 3 in Carmelo, Amar'e and Tyson Chandler. Rounding out their triumvirate would be Felton, Iman Shumpert. With Jason Kidd, Marcus Camby, J.R. Smith and Steve Novak coming off the bench. Now that is firepower, few teams will be able to match what the Knicks will dish out next season. 

Now let's look at why they pose a threat to the newly crowned Kings of the NBA down in South Beach. Amar'e Stoudemire, let us forget the hand and the fire extinguisher incident all in all. This guy was once a beast on offense, the only player I knew of that could dunk over, around and through a shot blocker. That version of Amar'e is hidden somewhere and hopefully is once again ready to be unleashed unto the NBA. His defense is suspect at best but that is what Tyson Chandler was brought in for. And if there is anyone who knows how to beat the Heat, its Chandler. It is very important to note that Amar'e has two weeks to learn from Hakeem Olajuwon, when thats over and done with, Stoudemire should come out a more polished post-up player with a bevy of moves to use against unsuspecting forwards and centers. When we combine his new arsenal of moves with his physical gifts, the results on the court should be a combination of beauty and fury.

Then we have Tyson Chandler patrolling the middle. He is the reigning 2012 DPOY. He should be able to duplicate his performance from last season, probably to a greater extent since the Knicks will have the opportunity at a full training camp this upcoming season. He gave the Heat fits in the 2011 NBA Finals, his presence on defense forced the Heat to morph into a jump shooting team. He also served as a great deterrent whenever LeBron or Wade were able to get into the paint. His overall intensity and team oriented play always made him a winner, he proved it in 2011. As for this season, he should be able to lead the charge defensively for the Knicks, and help contain the Heat if and when they meet in May.  

Carmelo Anthony, this guy just gets BUCKETS. I am still a firm believer that he is the best and purest scorer that the NBA has to offer. What separates him from Kevin Durant is his underrated strength and his ability to post-up and finish at the rim. If he finds a way to score with more efficiency, watch out. One of the few things Melo needs to improve is picking his spots on offense, there are a few times wherein he goes on a shooting rampage a-la Kobe Bryant, he is far from being a defensive liability, but he isn't a lockdown defender either. So a little more commitment on that end will go a long way. Once he finds that harmony on the court with Amar'e (I still believe it will happen), the Knicks will be as dangerous a team as any in the league. 

The supporting cast is one that maybe 24 other teams would take in half a heartbeat. Felton and Kidd will be more than serviceable at the point, effectively getting the better of the Chalmers and Cole pairing. The Knicks have Iman Shumpert who I firmly believe is capable of giving Dwyane Wade fits due to his length and quickness on D. If Shumpert reaches his full potential early, the Heat will be in for quite a surprise. J.R. Smith is good for more than a couple of 20 to 25, maybe even 30 point outbursts OFF THE BENCH. Of course there is elite 3 point specialist Steve Novak, who is bound to light it up on a consistant basis. Then there is Marcus Camby, who is pretty much Tyson Chandler Senior. 

The future of the Knicks franchise

In reality, the Knicks hold an advantage over the Heat at the point and the pivot. If Amar'e, Melo and Iman are able to neutralize Miami's Big(ger) 3. Then I really like their chances in a 7 game series. Needless to say there is a lot of work to be done. We should be able to predict how far this version of the Knicks can go by the New Year. A lot will be riding on how Amar'e can utilize what he learns from Hakeem, what Carmelo Anthony would be willing to sacrifice for the advancement of the team and Tyson Chandler's sustained dominance on defense. Also, if Jason Kidd can help Felton bust out of last season's joke of a campaign, the Knicks should be good to go. I'll go ahead and pencil the Knicks in as the 2nd seed in the East. I personally think that they match the Heat blow for blow in almost every aspect of the game. It will be totally up to them to show the world what they can do if and when things fall into place. The KNICKS-HEAT rivalry is back, hopefully this season rather than the next. 

The Lakers and their LARGER than life Centers

George Mikan, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille  O'Neal and Dwight Howard. No franchise in NBA history has this who's who of elite pivot men. The Lakers, as a franchise have always had a knack for acquiring talent. I attribute this to their move to Los Angeles from Minneapolis in 1960. Hollywood has a lot of appeal to both the old-school and modern day athlete. All that glitz and all that glamour has proven to be enough to lure elite NBA talent to Los Angeles.  

George Mikan of course was responsible for the very first dynasty in basketball history, leading his Minneapolis Lakers to 4 titles in the early 50's. Standing 6'10, Mikan towered over those would-be centers of that era easily cementing himself as a Lakers legend with his signature hook shot and shot blocking ability. 

1968 marked a change in the landscape of the NBA. The Los Angeles Lakers acquired arguably the most dominant force not just in basketball, but sports as a whole. Wilt Chamberlain was a larger than life athlete and personality. At 7'1 275 lbs., the Big Dipper was able to impose his will on the entire NBA with relative ease. Especially after the retirement of Bill Russell in 1969. Although Chamberlain had only two NBA titles to his name (just one with the Lakers), he still brought a boatload of publicity and fanfare to the legendary franchise that is the Los Angeles Lakers. 

The Big Dipper

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (formerly Lew Alcindor) was traded to the Lakers for a bag of peanuts in 1975. It wasn't til 1979 that the Lakers would turn into a true dynasty. When they acquired the 1st draft pick, they used it on none other than Earvin "Magic" Johnson. They later formed one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history winning five championships with Magic and Kareem leading the way. Kareem, armed with the most unstoppable shot in the NBA and probably sports, the feared "Sky Hook" was responsible for Kareem becoming the NBA's all-time leader in scoring with 38,387 points in 20 NBA seasons, a record that is to this day seemingly untouchable. 

Three of L.A.'s Five Great Centers

Right in the middle of the NBA's modern era or as others call it, "The Jordan Era". Shaquille O'Neal packed his bags for a move to Los Angeles, leaving the Orlando Magic as a free agent to join the Lakers and further solidify the franchise as a perennial playoff contender. Shaq dominated the following decade teaming with Kobe Bryant to win three consecutive championships in 2000, 2001 and 2002. His outgoing and wacky personality, coupled with his controversial nature earned him a permanent place in NBA history as one of its biggest stars and enigmatic personalities. Even though Superman's departure from L.A. was far from an ideal one, his dominance for the time he spent there won't soon be forgotten. 

 

In early August of 2012, none other than the Los Angeles Lakers pulled off another free agent coupe. After an endless back and forth between player and management, The Lakers landed the best Center in the world today. The supremely athletic Dwight Howard, perhaps the first great Laker center to be more valued for his defense than his scoring prowess, will be next in line to carry the Lakers into a new era. If he does indeed re-sign, the responsibility of keeping the Lakers relevant will fall on the sturdy and more than capable shoulders of Dwight "Superman" Howard. With a constellation of stars to keep him company in L.A., there is no doubt that this particular Lakers team has the ability to give us something we as fans will never forget. If a team boasts the talents of Steve Nash, Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant, they will be hard to stop, with Dwight Howard, they are as close to unbeatable as it gets. That is if everything works out as planned, as they haven't logged a single minute of playing time together. This new Lakers era is one I will pay close attention to. 

All in all, the Los Angeles Lakers seem to always get the best of every deal that they make. They draft well and deal even better. If Andrew Bynum reached his full potential in L.A., he would have been the first great Laker big man to be drafted by the Lakers themselves. But apparently they couldn't wait, so they went and nabbed the best center out there today. Who can blame them? If Dwight Howard is on the market, the richest team in NBA history will go shopping. It has yet to be seen if this Lakers team can become a dynasty. Not if a certain team down south has a say in the matter.